Top Ontario trails to explore this fall

Fall is a fantastic time to enjoy the great outdoors in Ontario. The temperatures are pleasantly cool, and the summer bugs have mostly disappeared, leaving behind crisp air and stunning scenery. With 71 million hectares of forest, the province offers an incredible variety of trails perfect for any active day trip.

It's easy to match your interests with the right Ontario trail. Whether you're a birdwatcher, a cyclist, or a hiker, there's an adventure waiting for you. Here is a selection of top trails to explore this autumn.

Canada's South Coast Birding Trail

The Canada's South Coast Birding Trail is a network that connects 17 of Southern Ontario's best birding hotspots between Lake Huron and Lake Erie. One of the most popular locations along this trail is Point Pelee National Park, which leads you to the southernmost tip of mainland Canada.

During the fall migration, Point Pelee is an exceptional spot to view pelagic bird species—those that spend most of their lives over open water—such as jaegers and kittiwakes. The park's unique geography acts as a funnel for migrating birds, making it a world-renowned destination for bird enthusiasts seeking to spot rare and diverse species.

Algonquin's Old Railway Bike Trail

While Algonquin Provincial Park is famous among paddlers for its 1,500 lakes, it also has plenty to offer cyclists. The Old Railway Bike Trail is a 32-kilometre out-and-back route that follows a decommissioned railway bed through a beautiful forest setting.

This wide, flat trail is easily accessible from five of the park's campgrounds, making it a perfect, safe adventure for families. As you pedal, you’ll be surrounded by incredible fall colours, including the brilliant oranges and reds of sugar maples and the vibrant yellows of birch, aspen, and tamarack trees. It’s a leisurely way to immerse yourself in the park’s iconic autumn landscape.

CliffLAND's Blueberry Mountain

For a rewarding hike that doesn't take all day, head to CliffLAND in Lanark County. The five-kilometre trail here takes you to the summit of Blueberry Mountain, celebrated for its diverse and beautiful habitats. In fact, it has been named one of the seven wonders of Lanark County.

Located southwest of Ottawa, the trail is part of the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust, which protects several other hiking trails. The ascent offers stunning panoramic views, especially as the fall colours paint the landscape below, making it a truly memorable and picturesque outing.

Lake Superior Provincial Park

For more experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Lake Superior Provincial Park offers several exceptional options. The demanding 10-kilometre Awausee Trail is a highlight, leading you up a steep climb to spectacular lookout points over the Agawa Valley's fall display and the vast expanse of Lake Superior.

If you’re looking for an overnight adventure, the 24-kilometre Towab Trail is an excellent choice. This rugged route for advanced hikers follows the Agawa River to the magnificent Agawa Falls. The trail is named after an Ojibwa guide who led tours in the area at the turn of the century, adding a touch of history to your trek through this wild and beautiful park.

Kolapore Uplands

Located in the Blue Mountains, about 20 kilometres southwest of Collingwood, the Kolapore Uplands are a paradise for experienced mountain bikers. The area features approximately 50 kilometres of marked, technical trails that wind through a beautiful hardwood forest. In winter, these trails are used for cross-country skiing, but in summer and fall, they provide a thrilling challenge for riders.

The network of single-track trails can be complex, so it’s a good idea to purchase a map from the Kolapore Wilderness Trails Association to help you navigate this incredible and rugged terrain.